Are you truly aware that you are here for a reason? Do you accept God’s call for you? Do you ignore it or do you reject it? - Daily Bible Reflections December 8,2014

Solemnity of the Immaculate

Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

 

HERE FOR A REASON

 

“I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary; “may it happen to me as you have said…” – Luke 1:38

 

Mother Teresa said, “I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world.”

       Look at what happened when Mother Teresa said yes to God’s call and allowed Him to use her as His instrument of love. She founded the Missionaries ofCharity, which is now active in 133 countries. Its members are changing the lives of many people by God’s grace.

       Mama Mary also said yes to God’s call of bearing His Son Jesus “out of wedlock.” She did this despite the risk of being stoned to death, which was the punishment of Jewish law at the time for adultery or fornication.

       Today we celebrate the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mama Mary in the womb of her mother. God preserved her from original sin so she could fulfill her divine purpose of being Jesus’ mother. In God’s perfect timing, she gave her yes. Look at what happened to the world when Jesus was born.

       Like both of them, God created each of us for a purpose. All He needs from us is to imitate Mary’s submission by responding with: “I am Your humble servant, Lord. May it happen to me as You desire.” Ma. Luisa De la Cruz (theessence_byluisa@yahoo.com)

 

Reflection: Are you truly aware that you are here for a reason? Do you accept God’s call for you? Do you ignore it or do you reject it?

 

Dear Mama Mary, help me to humbly say yes to God’s call to me that I may fulfill His purpose for creating me. Amen.

 

Blessed Virgin Mary, pray for us.

Don’t be frustrated when your plans don’t happen. Maybe God has something better in store you - Daily Bible Reflections December 7,2014

Second Sunday of Advent

 

BETTER PLANS

 

“As it is written in Isaiah the prophet: ‘Behold, I send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way.’” – Mark 1:2

 

My plan was to leave the office at exactly 5 p.m. and go home early. But sometimes things don’t go as planned. I got a call from my wife who told me that our daughter needed a canvas for a project, which would only be available at the bookstore at 6:30 p.m.

       As I was parking near the store, my wife called again to say that our son lost his school I.D. Could I look around at the bookstore in case he left it there? I did but didn’t find it. The salesclerk also told me that the delivery of the canvas was going to be late so I had to wait longer. I decided to grab some food. I went to a nearby food cart, and there, I saw my son’s I.D. clipped near the price list! The vendor said she found it on the floor earlier.

       My plan didn’t happen but the unforeseen events led me to buy the canvas, retrieve the lost I.D., and eat my snack.

       Today’s Gospel tells us about the plan of God to send a messenger to announce the coming of the Messiah. His plan was proclaimed in the Old Testament and was fulfilled in the New Testament. God’s plan is always reliable. There is no need to worry when you put your trust in His ways. Alvin Fabella (alvinfabella@yahoo.com)

 

Reflection: Don’t be frustrated when your plans don’t happen. Maybe God has something better in store you.

 

Lord, bless all my plans today. I humbly accept any change in my plans for I know that You always have something better planned out for me.

 

St. Ambrose, bishop and doctor of the Church, pray for us.

 

Stop blaming others. Take responsibility - God Whispers December 6,2014

Stop blaming others. Take responsibility.

      

Grow up,

God

P.S. Now go and change your life.

And your ears shall hear a word behind you: “This is the way; walk in it.” — Isaiah 30:21 - Daily Bible Reflections December 6,2014

MY ANCHOR

 

And your ears shall hear a word behind you: “This is the way; walk in it.” — Isaiah 30:21

 

         On many occasions, I’ve witnessed how our gracious God has rescued me through His life-giving Word.

         There were times in my life when I was down and weary, and I couldn’t get consolation from anything or anyone. It only took a moment of stillness to listen to God’s comforting words and I was made whole again.

         At another time, I had a friend who was in an illicit relationship with someone. Her children, unknown to her, were very much affected. I wanted to write to her about the situation but I had been setting it aside, afraid it would ruin our friendship. But my resolve to write to her was strengthened by a message I got from God’s Word.

         Often, Scripture is an unfailing source of hope and love. It’s like coming home. God, who knows you more than anyone will ever know you, whispers to your soul through His Word.

         Are you confused, discouraged, hopeless or simply in need of refreshment? Look to God’s Word. He is all you need. Lallaine Gogna (lallygogna@yahoo.com)

 

Reflection: “We who have taken refuge might be strongly encouraged to hold fast to the hope that lies before us. This we have as an anchor of the soul, sure and firm....” (Hebrews 6:18-19).

 

Lord, may I allow myself to be richly blessed with the power of Your Word.

 

St. Nicholas, bishop, pray for us.